Chakras 101: How Do They Get Out of Balance, Anyway?

Want to explore the chakras like you never have before? Join Alan Finger and Sarah Platt-Finger for YJ's new 4-week online course, Chakras 101: Unleash the Wisdom and Vitality Within. Through lessons, meditations, asana, mantras, and visualizations, you will learn how to balance these whirling forces of subtle energy, from root to crown. You’ll also fill in the blanks and discover what, exactly, chakras are, where they came from, and how they work. The results: The ability to alter your state of mind, carry yourself with more confidence and ease, and tap into your innate intelligence and power. Class starts January 29. Sign up today!

Energetic forces called gunas govern the characteristics of matter and energy in the world, whether we’re talking about an amethyst on your mala or a go-getter attitude that leads to a productive morning. As Alan Finger explains here, the chakras are also subject to imbalances of these three ever-changing qualities—tamasic (heavy and stagnant), rajasic (active and passionate), and sattvic (calm and balanced). The good news is that once you cultivate the skills to listen closely to your subtle body, you can harmonize your chakras through the breath.